MD SB983

Creates a new "Distributed Generation Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity" (DGCPCN) for community solar projects between 2-5 megawatts located outside municipal corporations, providing a streamlined permitting alternative to the standard certificate process

Requires the Power Plant Research Program to develop siting and design standards by July 1, 2026, with the Public Service Commission adopting final regulations by July 1, 2027, addressing setbacks, screening, forest preservation, stormwater management, and historic site impacts

Prohibits counties from enacting zoning laws that restrict or prohibit ground-mounted solar systems up to 2 megawatts of alternating current (provision expires June 30, 2027)

Establishes a 16-member Small Solar Siting Workgroup to recommend best practices and statewide model policies for solar systems up to 2 megawatts, with interim report due December 1, 2025 and final report due December 1, 2026

Requires public hearings in each affected county before DGCPCN approval, with the Power Plant Research Program having 90 days to review applications and the Commission scheduling a decision hearing within 60 days thereafter